Brooklyn [2015] ★★★

“Brooklyn” is a low key, likable film with all the right ingredients to call it a “crowd pleaser”. I’ve been a fan of Saoirse Ronan ever since she played Briony Tallis in 2007’s “Atonement”, and in “Brooklyn” she finally gets the chance to shine in her own love story. She plays an Irish girl who leaves her small village in Ireland to emigrate to America in the early 1950’s. A priest (Jim Broadbent) has promised to look out for her as she tries to settle in the big city. One day she meets an Italian-American guy who falls in love with her instantly and makes her feel at home for the very first time. The sweet narration, as we follow the main character’s bumpy journey, touches on familiar truths about relationships and responsibilities. There aren’t many revelations here, but there is relatability and that’s what makes the movie work, along with Ronan’s believable performance. If you’re into romantic movies, consider “Brooklyn” a must see.